Afghanistan kept their hopes alive in a dramatic finish against England in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Group B clash as Azmatullah Omarzai dismissed Jamie Overton in the 48th over. England, chasing 326, now needs 16 runs off 12 balls with just two wickets in hand.
Overton falls after Rashid drops Archer
Azmatullah, who had already made an impact with key breakthroughs, once again delivered under pressure. Bowling a slower full-length delivery outside off, he tempted Overton into an ambitious lofted shot. However, Overton mistimed it, sending the ball straight to Mohammad Nabi at long-on. Nabi took a comfortable catch, and Azmatullah roared in celebration as England lost their eighth wicket at a crucial moment. Overton departed for 32 off 28 balls, leaving England’s lower order with a stiff challenge.
Earlier in the same over, Jofra Archer had a close escape when he mistimed a length delivery. Rashid Khan, stationed at mid-off, ran back and got both hands to the ball but couldn’t hold on. The missed opportunity could prove costly for Afghanistan as Archer remains at the crease with Adil Rashid.
Match equation: England’s chase hangs in balance
With 16 runs required off 12 balls, Afghanistan has put themselves in a strong position to pull off a thrilling win. However, England still has power hitters at the crease, making the final overs crucial.
Can Afghanistan hold their nerve and close out the match, or will England’s tailenders pull off a stunning finish? The final overs promise a nail-biting contest in Lahore.